Energy bills to jump 4% in January as Middle East conflict tightens gas supply
Energy prices will rise by 4% in January, pushing the average household bill to £1,723 due to disrupted gas supplies from the Middle East war.
The January increase follows Ofgem's upcoming price-cap adjustment, raising bills by 4% as gas supplies are strained by the Iran-started war that has closed the Strait of Hormuz. Cornwall Insight notes EU gas storage is at its lowest level in 15 years. The average bill for direct-debit customers in England, Scotland and Wales will reach £1,723, an extra £5 per month. Over four million homes on standard tariffs will feel the impact, especially as colder weather drives heating use.
Why it matters
Higher energy costs will strain household budgets just as winter heating needs rise.
How the sides frame it
MODERATE AGREEMENTBoth camps report Ofgem’s price-cap rise and higher bills, but left-leaning coverage stresses political pressure and calls for consumer relief measures, while right-leaning coverage highlights the Middle-East conflict and warns of a looming energy crisis.
LEFT
Frames the hike as a political issue, noting pressure on the chancellor and urging extensions of VAT relief to ease consumer burden.
RIGHT
Frames the hike as a consequence of geopolitical tension, stressing strained gas supplies and the risk of a second energy crisis.
The left emphasises
- 4% price-cap increase will push the annual cap to £1,999 - the highest since 2023.
- Labour’s Andy Burnham says officials are reviewing options to give consumers breathing space.
- EDF’s Simone Rossi calls for extending the VAT exemption on electricity.
The right emphasises
- The rise follows a 4% price-cap adjustment as the Iran-started war closes the Strait of Hormuz.
- EU gas storage is at its lowest level in 15 years, tightening supply.
- Industry leaders warn Britain is heading into a second significant energy crisis.
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